Burden of Maternal Obesity on Congenital Anomalies: Implications and Future Trend

  • Arindam Bharadwaz Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
  • Gayatri Madhab
Keywords: Body Mass Index, Obesity, Congenital Anomalies, Congenital Heart Defects, Neural Tube Defects, Oro-Facial Anomalies.

Abstract

Obesity is linked to certain congenital anomalies viz. neural tube defects (NTD), congenital heart disease (CHD) and oro-facial anomalies. However the exact burden of obesity on congenital anomalies, its economic implications and future trend have not been well documented before. We present a thorough review of the current literature with deductive interpretations to arrive at the following observations. Congenital anomalies in general are a leading cause of infant and child mortality but they are on decline in many countries. However maternal obesity is on the rise. As a result, the share of maternal obesity contributing to congenital anomalies is likely to increase in future. Maternal obesity can therefore significantly contribute to perinatal mortality and its economic, social and psychological impact can be substantial.

Author Biography

Arindam Bharadwaz, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
Consultant, Department of Radiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark andResident, Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Vendsyssel Hospital Bispensgade 37, 9800 Hjorring, Denmarkrespectively

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Published
2016-01-26
Section
Review Articles